V1-3
The time of Jesus’ death was drawing near, see 12.7, 27, 33.35. The
hour had come, but it was at this time that Judas’ betrayal happened. Jesus
maintained His love for the Twelve even in this time of trial; see 12.27, “my
heart is troubled.” Yet through it all His relationship with His Father was
unchanged. Jesus knew what was about to happen, and He remained in control. He
spoke what He did to strengthen His apostles in their trial, see v19.
V4-5
A picture of Christ laying aside His glory, becoming a man, even a
servant; He humbled Himself, His decision, His choice. Everything was in His
hands, all power and authority, yet He chose the way of service and humility.
V6-9
Peter’s debate with Christ; this was something else, the significance
of which was not yet revealed. Peter and the others had to trust Him, that He
was doing the right thing.
V10
A reference to conversion, being completely clean. Once converted, we
still need regular washing from the impurity of this world (1 John 1.7,9).
V11
Yet even here was one who was not true, who would betray Him.
V12
Christ’s work completed, His glory restored, and He sat down (Heb 1.3).
He encouraged their understanding by question and explanation.
V13
Proper respect for the Lord Jesus; He commended their use of the titles
Lord and Teacher.
V14-15
Christ’s lesson, applying what He had done; the greatest of all leaders
taught that humble and lowly service is an essential part of leadership.
Following Christ means imitation. We need that regular washing; but we also need
to cleanse and refresh others also (Phil 7, 20).
V16-17
They had grown in understanding, now they must put these things into
practice.
V18
See also v10-11; Judas had been close to Jesus; in fellowship with true
believers, but not himself a true believer.
The O.T. scriptures predicted Judas’ character and deceit; this was no
accident, although he was fully responsible for what he did.
Even the Lord Jesus endured the deep hurt of betrayal, by one who shared
bread with Him, by one who kissed Him, Luke 22.47-48.
V19
The disciples were not to be surprised or discouraged by what was to
happen.
V20
The witness, sent by Jesus; His ambassador; this is our privilege and
responsibility.
V21-22
The clear statement that one of the Twelve was to betray Him; this
disturbed the disciples.
V23-24
John and Simon Peter took the lead to find out who it was who would
betray Jesus.
V25-26
Apparently a private sign, rather than Jesus openly exposing Judas. This
was why no one knew why Jesus told Judas to do it quickly, in v27-30.
V27
Judas was inspired by Satan; although predicted in the O.T., the betrayal
was still an act of the enemy.
V28-30
Judas went out, leaving behind his friends, and the One who could have
truly saved him. John tells us it was night, the time of sinful opportunity, see
9.4; 11.10; 12.36,46.
For Judas there was an inner night, for he walked in darkness. Although
his feet had been washed, and he was present during part of the Passover meal,
he was not fully clean. He also missed out on hearing the precious words of the
Lord, from v31 to 17.26; such things were for sanctified ears only.
V31
When Judas had gone, the opportunity was there for Jesus to teach deep
and precious truths.
V32
The time had come for glory for Father and Son, 12.28; John takes his
readers to the climax of crucifixion and resurrection.
V33
“My children,” words of love and concern. The Lord was explaining
what was shortly to happen, and preparing His disciples for the time ahead.
V34-35
The first proof of discipleship, love for each other.
“As I have loved you,” such was and is the love that His disciples
must show. Although this is primarily for each other, this is a testimony to the
world.
V36-38
Jesus allowed Peter’s interruption;
-
the first of several interruptions, see 14.5, 8,
22; 16.17;
-
He answered Peter’s question, as He did the
later questions;
-
He answered to give understanding.
This section leads to
the disciples’ declaration of understanding, see 16.29-30.
Previous dialogues
with the Jews were of a different character, as they had little desire to
believe in Him. Even when He spoke clearly of Himself, they rejected His words.
Peter realised the
implication of Jesus’ words, that He would die. In response, he made a promise
of loyalty and devotion, but he was over-confident and rash, even proud.
Sometimes our claims of ourselves carry mixed motives. Peter could not do what
Jesus was to do; His purpose in dying was much more than a martyr. Although
Peter had learned much, he had still not fully grasped the significance of
Jesus’ death.
Christ did not deny that Peter would lay down his life, see 21.18-19, where He actually prophesies this.